Simulation of Synthetic Aperture Radar I: Feature Density and Accuracy Requirements
Abstract
Simulations of ground mapping radar are generated from Defense Mapping Agency Digital Feature Analysis Data (DFAD) products which were developed to support real beam ground mapping radar. Criteria for inclusion of an object within a given level of DFAD are radar significance, height, and size. In general, Level 1 includes objects 100m and larger and Level 2 includes objects 30m and larger. A prototype DFAD incorporating features as small as 10m (Level X) was developed to support the higher resolution Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR); however, the minimum data base requirements for simulating SAR have not been determined. The present report describes three studies conducted to determine these requirements. In the first study, B-1B and F-15E radar operators rated SAR simulations produced from Level 2 DFAD (30m) and Level X (10m), plus two experimental data bases with 15m and 20m capture criteria. Eighty-two percent of SAR-experienced subjects found the 15m data acceptable. Simulations produced from Level 2 depicted areas of high reflector density as a single feature with uniform brightness and were acceptable to only 18% of the subjects. A study of the Radar Scope Interpretation (RSI) cues used by B-1B Offensive Systems Officers (OSOs) found that roads and rivers were critical cues, whereas individual structures were used only in the immediate vicinity of the aimpoint.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA211019
Entities
People
- David C. Hubbard
- Herbert H. Bell
- John Dooley
- Peter M. Crane
- Robert G. Kalinyak
Organizations
- Air Force Research Laboratory